If you want a low-shedding puppy, the Maltese, Toy Poodle, and Maltipoo are three of the best options available. All three have hair rather than a double coat of fur, which means they shed minimally and are often better tolerated by people with mild allergies. The Toy Poodle sheds the least of the three, followed closely by the Maltipoo, with the Maltese requiring the most regular brushing to prevent matting.
Why Some Dogs Shed Less Than Others
Shedding comes down to coat type. Most dogs have a double coat — a soft undercoat and a coarser topcoat — that sheds seasonally to regulate body temperature. Low-shedding breeds like the Maltese and Poodle instead grow hair continuously, similar to human hair. This hair falls out far less often, and when it does, it tends to get caught in the surrounding coat rather than falling onto furniture and clothing.
This is why hair-coated breeds are often marketed as “hypoallergenic.” No dog is 100% allergen-free — allergens come from dander, saliva, and urine, not just hair — but less shedding does mean less hair carrying dander around your home, which can reduce allergy symptoms for many people.
1. Maltese: The Classic Toy Companion
Shedding level: Low Best for: Apartment dwellers, first-time toy breed owners, families wanting a lap dog
The Maltese is a small, silky-coated breed with a long history as a companion dog. Adults typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds, making them ideal for small living spaces.
Key traits:
- Affectionate, gentle, and thrives on human companionship
- Long, white, single-layer coat that sheds very little
- Requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting
- Can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long
- Lifespan of 12–15 years
Grooming needs: The Maltese’s flowing coat looks stunning but needs consistent upkeep. Many owners keep the coat trimmed short (“puppy cut”) for easier maintenance rather than growing it out to full length.
2. Toy Poodle: The Low-Shedding Standout
Shedding level: Very low Best for: Allergy-sensitive households, active owners, anyone wanting a highly trainable dog
The Toy Poodle is widely considered one of the lowest-shedding breeds that exists. Standing under 10 inches tall and weighing 4–6 pounds, they combine intelligence with a dense, curly coat that traps loose hair instead of releasing it.
Key traits:
- Extremely intelligent and easy to train
- Curly, dense coat that sheds minimally
- Needs professional grooming every 4–6 weeks
- Energetic and enjoys mental stimulation, not just walks
- Lifespan of 12–15 years
Grooming needs: Because the coat doesn’t shed, loose hair stays trapped and can mat if not brushed several times a week. Regular grooming appointments are essential, not optional.
3. Maltipoo: The Best of Both Worlds
Shedding level: Low to very low Best for: Families wanting a designer breed with a friendly, adaptable temperament
A cross between the Maltese and Toy (or Miniature) Poodle, the Maltipoo has become one of the most popular designer dog breeds in the U.S. Weight typically ranges from 5 to 15 pounds depending on the poodle parent size.
Key traits:
- Friendly, playful, and adaptable to apartments or houses
- Coat can range from wavy to curly, usually low-shedding
- Generally good with children and other pets
- Combines Poodle intelligence with Maltese affection
- Lifespan of 12–15 years
Grooming needs: Because Maltipoos are a mixed breed, coat texture can vary even within the same litter. Regular brushing (2–3 times per week) and grooming every 6–8 weeks keeps the coat manageable.
Comparison Table
| Breed | Shedding | Size | Grooming Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maltese | Low | 4–7 lbs | Daily brushing | Lap dog lovers, small spaces |
| Toy Poodle | Very low | 4–6 lbs | Brushing + grooming every 4–6 weeks | Allergy-sensitive owners, trainability |
| Maltipoo | Low–very low | 5–15 lbs | Brushing + grooming every 6–8 weeks | Families, adaptable temperament |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which of these three breeds sheds the least?
The Toy Poodle sheds the least of the three, thanks to its dense, curly, continuously growing coat.
Are Maltese, Toy Poodle, or Maltipoo dogs truly hypoallergenic?
No dog is completely hypoallergenic. All three breeds produce less loose hair than double-coated breeds, which can reduce allergen spread, but people with severe allergies should spend time with the specific breed before committing.
Which breed is easiest for a first-time owner?
The Maltipoo is often recommended for first-time owners because it combines the Poodle’s trainability with the Maltese’s affectionate, easygoing nature.
Do low-shedding dogs still need grooming?
Yes. Low-shedding does not mean low-maintenance. Because loose hair doesn’t fall out on its own, it must be removed through regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent painful matting.
Which breed is best for small children?
The Maltipoo tends to be the most adaptable and tolerant around children, though all three breeds are small and can be injured by rough play, so supervision is recommended regardless of breed.
How much exercise do these breeds need?
All three are low-to-moderate energy breeds. A daily walk plus some indoor playtime is generally sufficient for the Maltese and Maltipoo, while the Toy Poodle benefits from added mental enrichment due to its high intelligence.
Final Thoughts
The Maltese, Toy Poodle, and Maltipoo each offer a low-shedding coat paired with a small size and affectionate temperament, making them excellent choices for apartment living, allergy-conscious households, or anyone who wants a companion dog without constant vacuuming. Your best choice ultimately depends on how much grooming time you’re willing to commit and whether you prioritize trainability (Toy Poodle), classic elegance (Maltese), or an adaptable family temperament (Maltipoo).
If you’re ready to bring one of these low-shedding companions home, The Barking Babies is a great place to start your search. The site connects prospective owners with Maltese, Toy Poodle, and Maltipoo puppies, along with guidance on choosing a reputable breeder and what to expect during the adoption process. Whether you’re looking for a fluffy lap companion or an intelligent, trainable pup, The Barking Babies makes it easy to find a healthy, well-socialized puppy that fits your lifestyle.
